Rochester racked up 16 hits and scored 12 runs to upend the Mankato MoonDogs Sunday night, 12-1.

The Honkers got to MoonDogs starter Philip Springman early, as they tallied 2 runs in the top of the first inning. After a scoreless second inning for both squads, the Honkers tacked on another 3 runs in the top of the third inning, chasing Springman from the game.

Rochester also scored 2 runs in the top of the fourth inning, 2 in the sixth, 1 in the seventh and 2 more in the ninth.

Mankato scored their lone run on Jon Shepard’s first home run of the season, in the bottom of the sixth inning.

Outfielder Aaron Grant gave the fans something to cheer about, making his 2004 debut on the mound, pitching the top of the ninth. Grant had a nice outing as he pitched 1 inning, giving up 2 unearned runs off of 1 hit and striking out 3 Honkers.

Sunday night’s game also marked the end of the first-half of the season. Starting Monday, July 5th, every team wipes the slate clean, vying to be second half division champions, and receive a birth into the playoffs.

The 2004 Northwoods Leauge first-half champions are the St. Cloud River Bats from the North Division and the La Crosse Loggers from the South Division, both assuring spots in the post-season .

The MoonDogs will kick off their second-half, facing the Madison Mallards Monday and Tuesday night at Franklin Rogers Park. Monday, July 5th will be a great night to enjoy Northwoods League action and your Mankato MoonDogs, as it’s Bat Night Presented by The Home Depot and 93 KXLP. The first 400 kids 14 and under receive a full-size Louisville Slugger. For ticket information call 507-625-7047.